Tarot of Mermaids - Seven of Wands
art by Mauro De Luca
published by Lo Scarabeo

Description: Wands are represented by oars. In this card, a mermaid is holding an oar with both hands raised above her head. In front of her are six more oars of differing heights standing upright in a row. The background colors are orange at the top, shading to a yellowish green in the middle and yellow at the bottom. There are murky shapes in the background, but nothing distinctive. Several small fish swim around.

The little white book says: Defense, integrity, valor, stubbornness, insistence, conviction.

First Impression: She seems cautious and fearful, but also determined to succeed. She holds the oar as if she is getting ready to swing it, to knock down the oars in front of her. Her tail is also raised in readiness. One powerful downward stroke of that tail will propel her out of danger. We can't see anyone holding the oars, there could be unseen or unknown enemies, or she could have placed the oars there herself in order to practice her moves.

Other Thoughts: Many of the oars in this deck have little branches growing from them to indicate the life-enhancing, creative qualities of this suit. However, none of the oars on this card are growing anything, giving me the impression that they represent the destructive powers of Fire. Also, the little fish in the card are swimming in all directions, indicating confusion.

Possible Divinatory Meanings: This card could indicate someone who needs to stand up for what s/he believes in, even if it means going against the status quo. It could also mean that one needs to be prepared to defend oneself. It reminds me of the Girl Scout motto "Be prepared." Or it could be that that she is only imagining being attacked, since there's no one holding the oars. Maybe it’s all in her head.

Becky